Hot dog-eating champ Joey Chestnut won’t compete this July 4. What’s the beef?

Joey Chestnut emerges victorious after eating 63 hot dogs in 10 minutes during the 2022 Nathans Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest in New York City.

The 16-time reigning champion lost his spot in this year’s competition after signing an endorsement deal with a company that makes plant-based hot dogs, potentially clearing the way for an underdog.

(Image credit: Kena Betancur)

The 16-time reigning champion lost his spot in this year’s competition after signing an endorsement deal with a company that makes plant-based hot dogs, potentially clearing the way for an underdog.